Release
The Stepkids - Self titled (Stones Throw)
The Stepkids are a fantastic new act on Stones Throw who are the brightest of the bunch of musicians who signal a real shift in direction for the label. Asides from the brand new and long overdue MED album Classic and Madlib’s releases, it’s probably safe to say there won’t be much more Hip Hop left on the label anymore. Or did I just read that Homeboy Sandman got signed? Anyway… The Stepkids’ debut self-titled solo album is a bit like the best bits of your friends’ record collection. You know, the ones records you wish you had or the ability to pull the right record out with the right meal when you’re over at their place? Every song on this record has a moment like that, be it the Rotary Connection referencing La La La or the Donald Byrd circa Lansana’s Priestess bits found in Shadows On Behalf. Santos & Ken has elements of The Beatles, Rocky Horror and ELO in it (and it’s fantastic). It’s one of those rare records where descriptions undersell and only bizarre and wild comparisons will do. Get it late September through Fuse.
